Why Associations? 

A Biblical Foundation

"In The Baptist Association, Ray Gentry reminds us that while the word 'association' is not found in the biblical text, the principle of associationalism is written on every page of the New Testament. From the early churches in Acts cooperating to send relief to Jerusalem, to the apostolic pattern of churches associating to protect doctrinal purity and plant new congregations, the Bible demonstrates that no single church is intended to fulfill the Great Commission in isolation. We believe that local churches are the 'roots' of our denominational tree; when we associate, we aren't just joining a network—we are following the New Testament example of 'striving together for the faith of the gospel' (Philippians 1:27). By working in voluntary cooperation, we ensure that every pastor is supported. Every church is equipped to advance the Kingdom more effectively than we ever could alone."

• The Principle of Synergy: Based on the conviction that we can accomplish more together than we can separately (Ecclesiastes 4:9-12).

• The Model of Paul: The New Testament churches collaborated across city lines to share resources, messengers, and mission strategy (2 Corinthians 8).

• The Vision of Unity: Associations serve as a local expression of the "Body of Christ," where diverse congregations work in harmony for a singular mission (Ephesians 4:1-16).

• The Great Commission Mandate: Recognizing that "Jerusalem" missions (local) are just as vital as "ends of the earth" missions, and best accomplished through local partnership (Acts 1:8).